The name Asher has its origins in the Hebrew language. It is derived from the Hebrew word 'asher', which means 'happy' or 'blessed'. The name first appeared in the Bible, specifically in the Book of Genesis, where it refers to one of the sons of the patriarch Jacob and his wife Leah.

The biblical figure of Asher was born around 1900 BCE and was the founder of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. In the biblical account, Leah named him Asher, saying "Happy am I, for the daughters will call me blessed." This suggests that the name was chosen to express joy and gratitude.

Throughout history, the name Asher has been used primarily within Jewish and Christian communities, though it has also been adopted by other cultures. One of the earliest recorded examples of the name outside of biblical literature can be found in the writings of the Jewish historian Josephus, who lived in the 1st century CE.

Notable individuals named Asher throughout history include:

1. Asher ben Yehiel (c. 1250-1327), a prominent Jewish scholar and biblical commentator from Spain.
2. Asher Lev (c. 1653-1714), a renowned scribe and calligrapher from Poland.
3. Asher Zvi Hirsch Ginsberg (1856-1927), a Zionist leader and Hebrew writer better known as Ahad Ha'am.
4. Asher Lopatin (1901-1981), a Jewish artist and sculptor from Russia.
5. Asher Edelman (born 1939), an American businessman and financial trader.

The name Asher has maintained its popularity within Jewish communities and has also gained wider appeal in recent times. Its meaning of happiness and blessing has contributed to its enduring use as a given name for boys.